Species Overview

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family: Canidae

Genus: Canis

Species: Canis mesomelas (Black-backed Jackal), Canis aureus (Golden Jackal)

Life Span: 8–10 years (in the wild)

Weight: 6–14 kg (13–31 lbs)

Height: 40–50 cm (16–20 inches) at the shoulder

Animal Behavior and Habits

Activity: Primarily nocturnal, but can be active during the day, especially in cooler weather.

Feeding Habits: Omnivores – feed on small mammals, birds, insects, fruits, and carrion.

Social Structure: Live in small family groups, but can be solitary when hunting or scavenging.

Hunting Approach: Stealthy hunters, often relying on opportunistic scavenging or hunting small prey.

Habitat and Environment

Preferred Habitat: Grasslands, savannas, open woodlands, and semi-deserts.

Water Sources: Found near waterholes, rivers, and marshlands, but can go without water for long periods.

Best Hunting Locations: Open plains or near animal carcasses, as they often scavenge.

Tracks and Trails: Small, dog-like tracks with four toes and claw marks.

Signs: Look for disturbed vegetation, scavenged carcasses, and droppings.

Hunting Time

Ideal Hunting Times: Dusk to dawn (nocturnal activity), though they are sometimes active during the day in cooler months.

Breeding Season: Typically during the cooler months (March–May), with higher activity during mating season.

Trophy Quality: Not commonly hunted for trophies, but valuable for predators in ecosystem management.

Use of Scent Lures: Can be effective during hunting, as jackals are attracted to carrion scents or calls.